EVERY year thousands of foreign and domestic tourists travel to Gilgit-Baltistan to enjoy the pleasant weather, see the natural scenery and for mountaineering.

The road is not much worth travelling owing to poor maintenance. Thus people are compelled to use the air which is only possible through PIA-operated flights from Islamabad to Skardu and Gilgit.

Owing to PIA monopoly, officials use unfair advantage in ticketing and their attitude towards people is rude.

The fares on this route are high and unreasonable.

Therefore, it is time other airlines were allowed to operate. Competition brings better service.

This would be a step toward boosting tourism and creating job opportunities for the local people.

Waqar Ahmed Baltistani

Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan

Published in Dawn, January 16th, 2015

On a mobile phone? Get the Dawn Mobile App: Apple Store | Google Play